Week 13 of pregnancy
What's Happening with Baby
Welcome to the second trimester!
This week, your baby is growing rapidly and becoming even more defined. A distinct neck is starting to develop, allowing the head more separation from the body.
The face, while still wide with widely separated eyes, is looking more human. A remarkable development is that the fetal kidneys are beginning to produce urine, which is then released into the amniotic fluid.
Your baby is now about 3 inches long (roughly the size of a peach or a lemon) and weighs around 3/4 of an ounce. While all major organs are fully formed, they will continue to mature and develop throughout the rest of your pregnancy.
If you were to see an ultrasound, it might even look like your baby is practicing breathing and swallowing movements. At Vegas Baby we can start seeing the gender this week!
What You Might Experience
As you enter the second trimester, many women find that some of the earlier, more challenging symptoms like morning sickness begin to ease. However, you might find that digesting three large meals a day is still difficult. If so, try eating smaller amounts more frequently throughout the day.
When you do eat, try to sit down at the table, eat slowly, and chew your food well to aid digestion.
You may also notice that your regular clothing is becoming tight around the waist and chest. This is a good time to explore looser shirts and opt for skirts or pants with elastic waistbands for comfort as your body continues to change.
Key Things to Keep in Mind
By the end of the first trimester (or the start of this second one), your placenta is fully developed and working hard. It's now the primary source providing your baby with oxygen and essential nutrients, as well as efficiently managing waste disposal.
The placenta also plays a crucial role in producing hormones that help maintain and support the pregnancy.
If you find yourself experiencing cravings for snacks between meals or "after-hours," opting for something light like crackers or drinking fluids can be helpful. And while maintaining healthy habits is key, it's also okay to reward yourself from time to time with a small treat, like a piece of chocolate, especially if you've been diligently following your exercise routine or medical advice.
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